The national Office of Drug Control Policy is making a local impact. Grants totaling $300,000 are to be distributed over three years to agencies in seven regions of Kentucky to combat substance abuse in those ages 12 to 25.

Locally, that means Communicare is administering money to be used by local law enforcement agencies to keep unused prescription drugs out of the wrong hands and out of water supplies.

Growing up, my mother was like a lighthouse to me: Her light was always on, a beacon guiding me through the daily adventures and the bumps and bruises of childhood and adolescence. At the end of the day, she was always there, welcoming me to the safe harbor that was my home.

Years later, when I left for other places and the home lights were but a distant flicker, I would remind myself of Mom’s words. And often, they would light my path.

Across the country and in communities like Radcliff, Elizabethtown and our surrounding communities, government employees protect and serve our nation every day. To honor these workers and their service, May 5-11 has been designated as National Public Service Recognition Week.

I want to personally express my support for the thousands of National Active and Retired Federal Employees in Kentucky and across our Nation. Won’t you join me?

It begins with Thunder Over Louisville and the events keep on coming, right up to the first Saturday each May.

The mini-marathon, the Great Balloon Race and Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront all have developed followings of their own. Smaller crowds participate in everything from volleyball games to a poker tournament as the Kentucky Derby Festival’s excitement begins.

When Derby Week eventually arrives the Great Steamboat Race occurs on Wednesday afternoon and the Pegasus Parade on Thursday.